18. Unnamed Spring (Upper Quarry Road)

Land Manager: BLM, Burley Field Office/State of Idaho
Legal Location: T 15S R 22E Section 15 Cassia County
Allotment: #4117 Goose Creek Private No.1

Dominant Plant Community Type: Shrub-Grass/Sagebrush-Grass

Impacts: This unnamed spring northeast of Wilson Pass has suffered intense, cumulative livestock impacts. The spring lies near the BLM/State boundary within this allotment; the hydric region covers more than an acre. Trampling and severe riparian shrub utilization has prevented a riparian structure from developing at the site. Although used as a watering source by a number of wildlife species, including Sage Grouse, the water quality is severely degraded. Flow has become disrupted and stagnant. Putrefaction of organic material and manure in the trampled hydric region emanates foul odors. The water slime molds present are capable of producing toxins that can lead to wildlife (and livestock) mortality. Vegetation pedestals have been formed throughout the hydric region by livestock trampling; down-slope soil creep is occurring.

Recommendations: It is recommended that livestock be permanently excluded or withdrawn from this spring location. If excluded, the exclosure facility should include many acres of the surrounding upland shrub habitat. Protection would allow the existing riparian shrub growth and understory to develop. The site would eventually become a much needed and important wildlife harbor and nesting site. Private mining development produces disturbance of habitat and spring sites further up the mountain, making this site even more critical for wildlife.

List of Figures:

1. Overview of spring area, looking northeast.

2. Severely impacted shrubs surround the hydric zone;
these were left approximately 12 inches high.